Translation guide
Expresses the remaining one of two, or the other one(s) in a set. Japanese uses different words depending on whether there are exactly two items or more than two, and whether the other is a concrete object, an abstract concept, or a person.
Referring to the second of exactly two items.
Used for the other one of a pair, often for concrete objects or abstract choices. Neutral formality.
この靴のもう一方はどこですか。
Where is the other one of this pair of shoes?
More formal/literary; often used in writing or formal speech for 'the other' of two options.
一方は賛成、他方は反対だった。
One side was in favor, and the other was opposed.
Similar to もう一方, but slightly more casual. Often for paired body parts or objects.
手袋のもう片方が見つからない。
I can't find the other glove.
Referring to the remaining item(s) when there are more than two.
Pre-noun adjective meaning 'other'. Used with a noun to specify 'the other X'. Very common.
他の人はみんな帰りました。
The other people all went home.
Means 'the rest' or 'the remaining'. Used when the others are what's left after some are taken.
残りは明日食べよう。
Let's eat the rest tomorrow.
Means 'another' or 'a different one'. Can be used for 'the other' when implying a different item from the one mentioned.
この本じゃなくて、別のを探しています。
I'm looking for the other one, not this book.
Referring to an alternative concept, the opposite side, or the other aspect.
Literally 'one more', but often used for 'the other' when there are two abstract things, like reasons or options.
理由は二つあります。一つは時間がないこと、もう一つはお金がないことです。
There are two reasons. One is that I don't have time, and the other is that I don't have money.
Means 'the opposite' or 'the reverse'. Used when 'the other' implies the opposite side or direction.
逆の方がいいと思う。
I think the other way is better.
Referring to another person, often in a pair or group.
Means 'partner', 'opponent', or 'the other person'. Used in conversations, games, relationships.
相手の言うことをよく聞きなさい。
Listen carefully to what the other person says.
Literally 'one more person', used for 'the other person' when there are two people.
もう一人はどこ？
Where is the other person?
All three mean 'the other one of two'. もう一方 is the most common and neutral. 他方 is formal and often used in written arguments. もう片方 is casual and often used for physical pairs like shoes or gloves.
もう一方の案を検討しよう。
Let's consider the other plan.
他方の意見も尊重すべきだ。
We should also respect the other opinion.
靴下のもう片方がない。
The other sock is missing.
The word 他 (ほか) means 'other' but is not always natural for 'the other' in English. Use specific words like もう一方, 残り, or 相手 depending on context. Overusing 他 can sound vague or unnatural.